Is the king protea a woody plant? Introducing this flower

Other names of the king protea

Bodhi flower, sea god flower

Morphological characteristics of the king protea

A perennial, multi-stemmed evergreen shrub plant. Its fresh flower is actually a flower ball, with many stamens, surrounded by huge, richly colored bracts.

The diameter of the flower ball is 12~30 cm. The diameter of the flower ball varies between 12 cm and 30 cm. In one growing season, a large and robust king protea plant can produce 6-10 flower balls, and an individual plant can produce 40 flower balls in one growing season. The color of the flower ball bracts varies from milky white to deep red. It has thick stems and glossy leaves, and when the plant is mature it is about 1 m tall.

Growth habits of the king protea

The king protea likes a warm, slightly dry and sunny environment, is not cold-tolerant, prefers well-drained conditions, and dislikes waterlogging. It requires loose and well-drained acidic soil. In winter the temperature is generally not lower than 7 degrees, and some varieties can tolerate around zero degrees. The soil for seedlings needs good drainage. During the growing period, summer requires a cool and dry climate, with appropriate shading during strong sunlight. The suitable growth temperature is 27 degrees. In winter it needs a warm, sunny environment and slightly higher air humidity.

Main values of the king protea

Ornamental: The king protea is an evergreen shrub with luxuriant branches and leaves, large flowers, upright bracts and petals, and exceptionally beautiful colors. It has a long ornamental period, is suitable for potted display, and is also an excellent material for cut flowers and dried flowers.

Medicinal: Relieves cough, benefits the brain, clears nasal congestion, promotes urination, softens the skin, lowers blood pressure, benefits the nerves, calms, and promotes sweating.